Are you expecting a new baby, planning your big spring break trip, or just looking to upgrade your old baby gear to a newer model? I have compiled a list of some of the best travel cribs for you. Having a good travel crib has benefits for parents and caregivers in your home and on the go. Some of the most important factors to consider when choosing the perfect travel crib are, does it provide a safe resting area for your baby, and is it lightweight, compact, and easy to move around a room? A good travel crib is designed to be a simpler version of the crib you have in the nursery.
Best Travel Cribs
A good basic standard model is the Graco Pack ‘n Play Playard with Reversible Napper & Changer
This playard is #1 on the market. One of its best features is the newborn napper. This is not only a great place for your newborn baby to nap but can also serve as a changing table while the baby is awake. As your baby grows you can transition them to the removable, full-size bassinet, then to a portable playard. The Graco also has a push-button close that can make moving and storage quick and easy. It comes in several patterns and colors, and the price will not break the bank.
I love the sleek look and sophistication of the Guava Family Lotus Everywhere Crib
The Guava Family has designed a great everyday crib. This portable crib has a quick 15 second set-up, breathable clear view mesh sides, and backpack portability. One of my favorite features is the zippered side door. This feature gives you and your child an easy way in and out through all their different stages. One feature I wish it had is a newborn bassinet.
If modern and unique qualities are something you look for, check out the Joovy Moon Room Play Yard.
This geometric shaped playard would look very cool in almost any home. I love the way Joovy can make a simple product pop with just a few simple changes. This play yard has plenty of space for your child to sleep or play, has mesh windows, and can easily fold up into its own travel bag. It comes in some great color choices, and the price point is mid-range.
If you are looking for a playard with the most bells and whistles, check out the Chicco Lullaby Playard.
This playard is a one stop shop, it provides you with everything you need to care for and entertain your baby. It comes with a removable bassinet for when your baby is still small. The changing table can be stored on the side of the play yard. Another great feature is the toy gym that is removable and can even transfer to the floor for use as well. My 2 favorite features that this playard has that many others do not are the parent organizer, where you can store everything from diapers and wipes to extra blankets or toys. It also includes a roll-down flap, this would be great to signal to the baby that it is time for bed, no peeking.
My last favorite choice is for the true traveler, the Summer Infant Travel Bed.
This is a great on the go travel bed. It is lightweight, has a fold-and-go design, and a detachable carry strap. I like this bed because of its versatility; it could be placed in many different places since it does not take up a lot of room. If you are traveling on a plane or in the car it could easily fit in your luggage. The downside of this option versus the others listed above is it will not last your child very long. Once they can roll, sit up, or begin to move around in their sleep it may no longer be a good choice for you. It is an inexpensive option if you are looking for a safe, comfortable place for your newborn baby to sleep when not at home.
When it comes time to choose the best travel crib for you, do your research. Think about brand, quality, function, design, and price. There are many websites to search, and read reviews on best travel cribs (see below). If you can go to the store, touch and feel the product envision it in your home, visualize your baby sleeping or playing in the playard. In my opinion, the most important factor to consider in a travel crib is how well does it travel. Is it heavy, a pain to fold up, will it never fit back into the bag?
Good luck and happy traveling!